Name: Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups butternut squash purée; ½ cup milk (4.22 fluid oz | 125 ml); 1 cup ricotta cheese (8.8 oz | 250 g); 1 teaspoon minced garlic; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups fresh baby spinach (2.29 oz | 65 g); 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 cup ricotta cheese (8.8 oz | 250 g); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (4.76 oz | 135 g); ½ cup parmesan cheese (plus more to garnish) (1.58 oz | 45 g); 1 ½ cups grated mozzarella cheese (7.12 oz | 202 g); 9 lasagna sheets; Parsley (to garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 51 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a cozy, comforting dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, then this Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine layers of sweet, velvety butternut squash puree melding effortlessly with tender spinach and creamy cheeses, all nestled between perfectly cooked lasagna sheets. It’s hearty yet fresh, rich but balanced, and guaranteed to become a favorite on your dinner table whether you’re cooking for family or guests. This recipe brings warm autumn flavors wrapped up in a classic Italian favorite, making every bite a celebration of comfort and health.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of several cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There are layers of pale yellow lasagna sheets stacked neatly on the left side. A white bowl filled with shredded cheese sits at the top left, while a blue bowl holds fresh green spinach leaves at the top right. In the center, there's a clear glass bowl containing a bright yellow sauce with a smooth texture. Nearby, a smaller glass bowl contains finely grated pale cheese. At the bottom are two small clear glass bowls, one with dried leafy herbs and the other with white sauce, next to a white bowl filled with thick creamy white ricotta cheese. A garlic bulb rests to the right, and there are two small jars of salt and black pepper lying on their sides near the bottom left. The composition is bright, clean, and organized, with a soft natural light illuminating the ingredients photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building those layers of flavor and texture that make this lasagna so special. You’ll find the list wonderfully simple, yet the combination creates a dish that looks spectacular and tastes even better.

Butternut squash purée (2 cups): This provides the natural sweet base that brings a creamy texture and beautiful color.

Milk (½ cup): Adds smoothness and helps achieve a luscious consistency in the squash mixture.
Ricotta cheese (2 cups total): Gives the lasagna a creamy, dreamy richness that balances the vegetable flavors perfectly.
Minced garlic (2 teaspoons total): Offers a fragrant depth that elevates each filling’s savory notes.

Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Just a hint to complement the butternut squash’s sweetness.

Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon): Brings in classic herbaceous notes tying everything to Italian tradition.
Fresh baby spinach (2 cups): Provides a vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly earthy taste.
Mozzarella cheese (1 cup plus 1½ cups shredded): Melts beautifully for that perfect golden, gooey top.

Parmesan cheese (½ cup plus extra for garnish): Gives a nutty sharpness that rounds out the cheesy layers.
Lasagna sheets (9): The sturdy base that holds all the flavors together and creates those recognizable layers.
Parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and a mild herbal brightness at the end.

How to Make Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna Recipe

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a single smooth layer of a thick, creamy mixture that is pale yellow with small black specks scattered throughout, giving the texture a slightly uneven look with a few small lumps visible. The bowl is round and transparent, showing the full consistency of the mixture inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (180°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This simple preparation sets the foundation for your lasagna’s perfect rise and golden finish.

Step 2: Make the Butternut Squash Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together 2 cups of butternut squash purée, ½ cup milk, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning. This creamy and fragrant mixture is going to be your sweet, silky layer that harmonizes beautifully with the spinach.

Step 3: Prepare the Spinach Filling

In another bowl, combine 2 cups fresh baby spinach, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup parmesan cheese. The fresh spinach will bring a slight earthiness and a fresh burst of color that your lasagna loves.

Step 4: Assemble Your Layers

Spread a third of the butternut squash filling evenly on the bottom of your baking dish. Next, lay three lasagna sheets over the squash layer. Spread half of the spinach filling on top, then repeat these layers once more: squash mixture, then three lasagna sheets, and finally finish with the remaining butternut squash filling. Top everything with the remaining 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese for that irresistible bubbly crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the middle rack for 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. This two-step bake ensures a perfectly moist inside with a beautifully browned top.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Take the lasagna out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting into it. This resting time helps the layers set so that each slice holds together beautifully and the flavors meld just right.

How to Serve Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a perfect touch of bright green and a hint of herbal brightness that complements the creamy textures and rich flavors without overpowering them.

Side Dishes

This lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette to contrast the richness. Crusty garlic bread on the side also makes every bite even more indulgent and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the lasagna in individual ramekins layered like the big dish for an elegant touch. Alternatively, add roasted walnuts or pomegranate seeds on top just before serving for a pleasing crunch and festive look that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your delicious dish has cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna Recipe keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days, making it a perfect ready-made meal for busy nights.

Freezing

You can freeze this lasagna either before baking or after cooking. Wrap it tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy this comforting dish anytime cravings strike.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the frozen lasagna overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. For refrigerated leftovers, warm in the oven or microwave, covering it to retain moisture and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use regular squash instead of butternut?

You can substitute other types of squash like acorn or kabocha; however, butternut squash’s natural sweetness and creamy texture make it ideal for this dish.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat or animal-based broth. It’s a nourishing option for vegetarians craving comfort food.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap regular lasagna sheets for gluten-free noodles to enjoy this Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna Recipe without gluten.

What type of ricotta cheese works best?

Whole milk ricotta offers the creamiest texture and richest flavor, but if you prefer a lighter option, part-skim ricotta works well too.

How can I make the lasagna more protein-rich?

Add cooked lentils to the spinach mixture or include some shredded cooked chicken for extra protein without sacrificing the dish’s wonderful texture and flavor balance.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing this Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna Recipe with those you care about. It’s comforting, wholesome, and packed with seasonal flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive gathering, I promise once you try this recipe, it will become a treasured staple in your cooking repertoire. Go on, treat yourself and your loved ones to this memorable dish!